Shoebill Study

Year

2026

Dimensions

9 in x 13 in

Materials

Graphite on Drawing Paper

Shoebill Study was an independent graphite drawing made from photo references. My main goal was to study the birds carefully and make their forms and textures look as realistic and accurate as I could. The hardest part was the feather texture because I had to show the direction, layering, and softness of the feathers without letting them turn into one repetitive pattern. I used controlled graphite marks and gradual value changes to separate the feathers from the smoother surfaces of the beaks and faces. This piece shows close observation, patience, and my ability to translate multiple animal references into one finished composition.